Increasingly, consumers expect even the most mundane products to carry an emotional, cultural or playful layer that reflects who they are or what they enjoy — something that used to be reserved for fashion, cars and consumer electronics.
Pine-Sol launched four limited-edition cleaning products inspired by internet memes and sold exclusively through TikTok Shop. Basically, a century-old household cleaner becoming a cultural collectible.
The Pokémon Company introduced a suitcase with a transparent compartment designed to display up to three plush toys while travelling.
Radius released wireless earbuds in a furry charging case that meows, purrs and even offers a relaxation mode built around cat sounds.
The pattern across these examples: products that are no longer expected to simply perform a task, but to communicate personality, taste and belonging.
Time to assess where in your portfolio function could become a canvas for self-expression?
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